Susanville Police Chief Kevin Jones issued a statement on Tuesday addressing several issues that have prompted concern among local residents recently, including area homelessness and an increase in trespassing and vandalism of buildings in town. Although the two problems can be related, Jones explained that they are not necessarily connected.
Chief Jones’ statement closely follows the last City Council meeting where residents addressed the council regarding the homeless, camping and litter along the river and transient issues associated with crimes within the City.
“I want to assure the Community that the city’s camping ordinance, specifically related to the waterways, is in effect and enforceable,” explains Chief Jones.
“The Police Department has conducted camping enforcement operations since the Ordinance has been in effect and issued citations related to the incredible amount of trash adjacent to the river. We are aware of the abhorrent amount of trash along the river.”
According to Jones the City of Susanville has planned several clean-up days moving forward, consisting of volunteers, city employees and C&S Waste who partners with the city for the clean-ups.
“However,” continues Jones, “the trending issue is the trespassing and/or vandalism of local area residences and buildings. Although these crimes have been associated with the homeless/transient issue, it is not necessarily true the two have a nexus to each other.”
“We have discovered the vast majority of these break-ins and thefts are people who have resided in our community – some for many years.”
During Jones’ 14-months in the position as Susanville’s top law enforcement officer he has been very clear about the need for community members to be vigilant and report suspicious activity when they see it.
“We need our community to call and report suspicious activity,” said Jones. “If you see someone going into an abandoned building or residence, call us so we can try to arrest these people who are trespassing or committing other crimes.”
As an example Jones explains that you might have a home near you that is vacant or up for sale and see activity inside. If you do, call the Police Department.
Will calling the police be effective? Will anything be done?
“I have heard time and time again, that the Police Department can’t do anything,” says Jones who explains that, “Although past legislation that has reduced the severity of some crimes, if a person occupies or breaks into another’s home or building it is still a crime. But, as we address these crimes, among others, we need the community’s help. In order for us to catch these perpetrators, we must rely on our community help us out.”
“I know many are frustrated by these recent crimes. I join in your frustration. But we cannot be productive without the help of our community. You have an incredible group of people at the Police Department who want to help our community and we all join together in attempt to prevent these crimes and hope to deter others who want to commit these crimes in our community. It is my plea that you all help out in making our community a better place.”
Jones invited Susanville residents to reach out to him at the Police Department by calling 257-5603 and reminds citizens that, “If you see something, say something.”
